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Analyst Report

Enabling the Frontline Workforce

Learn how organizations can better enable frontline workers to thrive in their current and future roles.

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Giving frontline workers the support they need leads to better business outcomes

Over the last few years, it’s been said that frontline workers are severely underserved and lack support compared to other workers. But a recent study by RedThread Research discovered this may not necessarily be the case.


RedThread found that all employees — frontline and otherwise — have similar needs and aspirations in terms of big-picture workplace elements such as development, connection, support, purpose, and engagement.


From this research, RedThread has determined that there are many ways leaders can both confront challenges and build on what’s already done well in three main areas. Organizations must enable their frontline workers (and all employees) to:

  • Performance icon
    PERFORM WELL

    Set clear goals and expectations, and provide regular, data-based performance insights.

  • Growth icon
    LEARN, GROW, AND PREPARE FOR FUTURE ROLES

    Develop employees’ skill sets and enable managers to better support frontline workers’ development.

  • Support person 2 icon
    WORK IN AN PLACE THAT MOTIVATES, ENGAGES, AND INCLUDES THEM

    Make onboarding inclusive and engaging and improve two-way communication with frontline workers.

With frontline workers being the face of organizations, it’s especially important that they’re properly supported and provided with a work environment that helps them grow and thrive.

This analyst report highlights 15 actions that organizations can do to implement positive change for their frontline workforce.